Magnitude 5.7 Earthquake Strikes Central Japan, Injures Over 20 People

News Desk

SHIZUOKA: A magnitude 5.7 earthquake struck central Japan on Thursday, injuring more than 20 individuals and prompting authorities to issue warnings about potential strong aftershocks in the coming days.

The quake, which occurred in Shizuoka prefecture, was felt across a wide area, causing panic among residents.

Local officials reported that the tremor hit at approximately 2:00 PM local time, with its epicenter located near the city of Hamamatsu. Emergency services were quickly deployed to assess damage and assist those injured.

“We are doing everything we can to ensure the safety of our citizens and provide immediate medical assistance to those affected,” said a spokesperson for the Shizuoka government.

This earthquake adds to the growing concerns about seismic activity in Japan, a country that is no stranger to such natural disasters. The government has urged residents to remain vigilant and prepare for possible aftershocks, which could further complicate recovery efforts and pose additional risks to public safety.

Authorities are currently conducting assessments of infrastructure and public facilities to determine the extent of the damage. Residents are advised to stay informed through official channels as the situation develops. The Japan Meteorological Agency is closely monitoring seismic activity and will provide updates as necessary.